Murdered farmer leaves R30m to orphanage

A North West farmer who was murdered on his property in April 2012 has left his entire estate, worth R30 million, to a Potchefstroom orphanage.

At van der Merwe, 38, was assaulted and robbed in his home in April, and died shortly after the incident, Beeld reported on Tuesday.

Advocate Johan Pretorius, chairman of the Abraham Kriel orphanage's advisory board, said on Monday that a trust would be established, and the trustees would decide on the best and most sustainable manner to benefit the children.

“We want to secure the money, and to ensure that it doesn't go directly into an orphanage account. A panel of experts will advise us.”

The Abraham Kriel orphanage's manager, Catharien Saayman, said she still could not believe the extent of Van der Merwe's generosity.

“I lay awake for several nights with the will on my bedside table, and every so often I had to look at it again. We are very grateful.”

Van der Merwe had no association with the orphanage, reportedly led a hermit-like existence, was unmarried, and had no children of his own.

Police have yet to make arrests in connection with Van der Merwe's murder. - Sapa

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